An Etiquette Guide For The “Plus One” Wedding Guest

by EmilyanFebruary 8, 2012 3

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Photo courtesy of Mastin Studio

When you find yourself an unwitting guest at a wedding full of strangers, it’s easy to drink too much, talk too much, or simply become a permanent fixture by the cheese table. Lucky for you, we’ve created a handy etiquette guide for both the painfully introverted and the shamefully extroverted.

Whether you’re prone to downing too many Belvedere martinis to calm your shaky nerves, or clamming up in socially stressful situations, here are a few tips to be the perfect wedding guest and how to  navigate a totally foreign wedding landscape – and becoming the perfect plus one!

Photo courtesy of Whitney Huynh

If you’re a bit of a wallflower…

Pace your drinking. You’re an adult – don’t use someone’s big day as an opportunity to test your limits. Follow each dose of liquid courage with a healthy portion of hors d’oeuvres or these great late night snacks, and try alternating your drinks with water.

Don’t cling to your date. It’s always tempting to just stick with what (or in this case who) you know – but make a point to break away and work the room. When you’re only paying attention to your date, you’re putting up a wall that other guests won’t try to penetrate.

A little schmoozing goes a long way. Want to mix and mingle? Here’s an easy conversation starter – compliment someone. Or something! You’re at a wedding – there are plenty of lovely little details and current wedding trends to discuss with other guests, like cool pet inspired decor, which you may be lucky enough to see this year (it’s a big trend for 2012).

Don’t do anything by yourself. Eating alone? Drinking alone? Dancing alone? STOP. Find a buddy fast. Even if it’s the ring bearer or the bartender. Though if it’s frequently the bartender, please refer back to rule numero uno.

Photo courtesy of Persimmon Images

If you’re frequently the life of the party…

Pace your drinking. Weddings are not an appropriate venue for body shots, Jager Bombs, keg stands, etc.

Social networking is ok – shameless self promotion is not. Weddings may seem like the perfect opportunity to pimp your newest venture – but resist the urge! Exchanging a few business cards is ok – but using someone’s wedding as a platform to promote yourself is a HUGE no-no.

You don’t have to be everyone’s BFF. The bride and groom have a LOT on their plate today.  There’s no need (nor is there time) to lay the foundation for a lasting friendship. Tell the bride she looks beautiful, thank the couple for having you – and move on. You’ll be lucky if they remember your name tomorrow. Heck, they’ll be lucky if they remember their own names tomorrow.

Don’t ignore your date. Don’t forget about the fabulous girl or guy who was nice enough to bring you – and when they’re ready to go, cede to their wishes. You’re new here – you don’t have to shut the party down. A nice thank you card afterwards – like these handmade ones from Etsy - is always a nice gesture.

Do you have a close friend, family member, or coworker who’s about to tie the knot? Don’t forget to tell them about Zankyou! As always, you can follow us on Twitter @Zankyou or like us on Facebook!